Stephanie Nala branded a bully

'The X Factor' hopeful Stephanie Nala has been branded a "horrible and spiteful" bully by her former classmates

Stephanie Nala has been branded a "spiteful" bully by her former classmates.

'The X Factor' hopeful - who is being mentored by Cheryl Fernandez-Versini - has been hit by claims that she was a "horrible and spiteful" bully while she was studying at Turnford School in Hertfordshire.

Stephanie Shaw, a former pupil and classmate of the singer, told The Sun on Sunday newspaper: "She was the worst bully at our school. Steph made my life a living hell for four years.

"She'd say I was fat and threaten me. I went home crying again and again.

"I was terrified. She was known for starting fights."

These claims come after Stephanie told 'The X Factor' audience that she had been the victim of bulling herself and explained that it was affecting her self-confidence on the show.

Angered by these claims, another former student, Sam Gritton added: "She wants everyone to think she's this sweet little innocent. She's actually an intimidating bitch. The second I saw her on TV, I switched off."

Chloe Smedley, who also studied at Turnford School, wrote on Facebook: "It's a shame she's going to gain success. She made girls feel worthless."

Although Stephanie has yet to comment on the accusations made against her, a show source said: "Steph is devastated by these claims as she was often the victim of bullying."